Walk MS 2017 Events Expected to Bring Total Fundraising for Multiple Sclerosis Past $1 Billion

This year’s annual Walk MS event will bring cumulative fundraising for multiple sclerosis (MS) and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) since 1988 to more than $1 billion, say organizers.

“Walk MS is a joyous gathering with a wonderful ‘we’re in this together’ feeling,” NMSS President and CEO Cyndi Zagieboylo said in a press release. “Every participant, volunteer, donor and sponsor is helping to drive us toward this exciting $1 billion milestone.”

Last year, more than 300,000 people some 550 locations nationwide participated in the Walk MS events, raising almost $50 million combined. At least 3,000 volunteers are expected to converge April 8 in Dallas for Walk MS: Dallas. The event, to take place at Addison Circle Park (4970 Addison Circle, Addison, TX 75001), will likely raise $462,000 or more. The site opens at 7:30 a.m., and the walk begins at 8:30 a.m.

Other Walk MS events taking place in April include Walk MS: Boston, on April 2, and Walk MS: Portland (Oregon) on April 15.

Each walk is fully accessible, includes multiple distance options (including a one-mile route option), and features support for walkers by volunteers. To participate, visit the Walk MS registration page and choose the walk that suits you best. You can also invite your family and friends, neighbors or co-workers and form teams to raise funds that drive innovative MS research, provide life-changing services, and support a community that needs these resources on a regular basis.

If you do attend one of the Society’s Walk MS events, don’t forget to share your experience on social media platforms using the hashtags #walkMS and #WalkTogether to help spread the word about the events and MS.

The events also offer a chance to connect to the services provided by the NMSS — the largest private funder of MS research worldwide. The organization offers MS patients round-the-clock information, support and resources to help them live their best lives and understand their disease the best they can. Genentech is the national sponsor of the Walk MS initiative.